Valparaiso University head baseball coach Tracy Woodson has signed five players to National Letters of Intent committing them to the Crusader program beginning in the fall of 2008.  Joining Valpo are Billy Cribbs, Tyler Deetjen, Kyle Gaedele, Steve Scoby, and Ryan Shober.

                 Cribbs is a catcher from Rochester High School in Rochester, Mich.  He was an All-League, All-Area, and All-County selection was recognized by the Oakland Press as the top junior in the area.

                 “Billy was the top defensive catcher that we saw throughout the entire summer while recruiting all over the country,” Woodson said.  To get a player of his ability will make a major impact in our program.”

                 Deetjen is a left-handed pitcher from Saint Charles, Ill.  As a sophomore he played varsity and went 3-3 before missing his junior season with an injury.  He has played his summer baseball with the Downers Grove Longshots.

                 “We are hoping that Tyler will be an impact starter for us immediately,” Woodson said.  “He has the ability to throw three pitches for strikes on a consistent basis and is a big kid that has the potential to increase velocity on his fastball.”

                 Gaedele is an outfielder from Arlington Heights, Ill.  A two-year starter at Rolling Meadows High School, he has participated in the Area-Code tryouts, Black and Silver series, and the Pitch and Hit Club Showcase.  

                “Kyle is a strong and athletic 6’3” player that possesses power and speed,” commented Woodson.  “His potential is unlimited and we have high hopes for a tremendous career at Valpo.”

                 Scoby is an outfielder from Plainwell, Mich. where he is a two-time All-District selection for Delton Kellogg High School.  He is also a three-time All-County pick and has twice earned First Team All-Conference honors.

                 “We feel Steve fits in perfect for what we are trying to do here at Valpo,” said Woodson.  “His ability to get on base and his defensive speed in the outfield will contribute greatly to our overall success.  His overall strength and athleticism is deceptive and exciting to watch on the field.”

                 Shober is from Inverness, Ill. where he has been a three-year starter at Fremd High School.  Considered one of the top defensive shortstops in Illinois, he also has played for the Palatine Legion Team throughout his high school career.

                 “Ryan was a tremendous get for our program as we battled Big Ten schools for his services,” Woodson said.  “He is a slick fielder whose contributions at the plate will continue to improve at Valpo as he continues to mature physically.  Ryan is a coach’s dream as his passion and excitement for the game is contagious.”

                 “We are extremely excited about this recruiting class,” concluded Woodson.  “We filled each and every need that we had for this class and the athleticism gives us high hopes for the future.”